If a lump or abnormality in your breast is found, you may be referred to a surgeon who will order or perform a procedure to give you an accurate diagnosis. Usually this happens after an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound is done of the affected breast.
This is a surgical procedure done under general anesthesia to remove a suspicious lump or a known cancer from the breast. This surgery leaves as much breast tissue as possible. The surgeon makes an incision on the breast from which he will remove the tumor and a small surrounding margin of normal tissue. At this time, if the lump is cancerous, the surgeon may remove one or more lymph nodes to have them screened for cancer cells. This is called a Sentinel Node Biopsy.
Mastectomy is the surgical procedure to remove the entire breast tissue under general anesthesia. These procedures usually require a one night stay in the hospital.
There are two types of mastectomies: Simple and Modified Radical
Both of these procedures leave as much skin as possible for breast reconstruction at a later time if so desired.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.